If you want to take a break from frenetic city life, what could be better than an outstanding Swedish spa experience on the Swedish west coast northeast of Lysekil?
Vann Spa Hotel and Conference, located in Brastad by the sea and within the vicinity of Backa Rock Carvings and Nordens Ark, is one hour’s drive by car from Gothenburg or two hours from Oslo.
The hotel opened in 1999 and is exclusively built in Scandinavian materials such as granite and wood. As soon as you step into the lobby, you’ll experience a sense of wellbeing, a peaceful, relaxing ambience. Candles, soft music and soothing, natural colors are used in the public areas and reception.
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It’s a huge facility, hosting 156 well equipped guest rooms and a 1,000 square meter spa with 6 indoor swimming pools, one outdoor pool, three saunas, a private beach and an outdoor tennis court.
Food plays a central role at Vann
Every single dish that customers enjoy during their visit is made from scratch and ingredients are all fresh and locally sourced. The menu is seasonal and carefully designed in every single aspect. Grab a bite to eat in the hotel’s restaurant, where you can enjoy drinks at a bar, take in a pool view, and even dine alfresco (weather permitting). You can also stay in and take advantage of 24-hour room service. Quench your thirst with your favorite drink at a bar/lounge. A complimentary healthy and excellent buffet breakfast consisting a healthy range of cold meats, cheeses, bacon, eggs, fruit, cereals and juice – as well as less healthy treats, such as almond croissants is included.
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Some of the rooms have views across the serenely beautiful Gullmar fjord, a nature reserve that provides opportunities for scenic canoeing right from the hotel door (canoes can be hired at the reception). There are also waymarked walking trails in the surrounding woodlands – take time to explore these. For those planning to burn off a lot of calories, take a long swim, hike or paddle.
Water and light
Water and light are two important elements which you can experience in the different pools of varying sizes and temperatures, as well as saunas and steam room. Don’t miss the four small, heated pools – all containing different light spectrums.
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Explore the surroundings
There’s plenty to see and do within a short drive from the hotel. The wildlife park Nordens Ark features rare and endangered animals and a superb conservation program is nearby. You should also visit the charming seaside towns of Lysekil and Smögen, where you’ll find colorful fisherman’s cottages and dozens of cafés and boutiques along the lively, pedestrianized wharf.
Outstanding Swedish Spa Experience, written by Tor Kjolberg
All images © Vann Spa Hotel and Conference